Pirate Bay co-founder launches encrypted messaging app

The co-founder of The Pirate Bay is to launch a secure messaging app that encrypts information at both ends.

Peter Sunde said Hemlis - the Swedish word for "secret" - will be free to download, with users being charged for extra features such as sending images.

The service, which will be available on Android and iOS devices without advertising, was born in response to the recent PRISM scandal.

The app's owner, ISPs and external agencies such as the government will not be able to access information, including messages sent.

"Companies like Facebook, Twitter, Apple and Google have been forced to open up their systems and hand out information about their users. At the same time they have been forbidden to tell anyone about it," the new app said in a statement.

"We're building a message app where no-one can listen in, not even us. We would rather close down the service before letting anyone in."

Hemlis will be a crowdfunded project and has so far raised 29% of its $100,000 desired goal.